aip march 2014 enewsletter

AIP National Office 34 Lawson Street Oxley QLD 4075 Australia +61 7 3278 4490 +61 7 3009 9916 [email protected] www.aipack.com.au

AIP NEWSLETTERJoin the AIP on

1

MARCH 2014

The AIP in conjunction with the Indonesian Packaging Federation and the World Packaging Organisation

(WPO) will run packaging workshops and a training course at the Swiss Belhotel Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia

from March 5-8. The event comprises two parallel workshops with class discussions from March 5-7 and

on March 8 a visit to the Food, Hotel & Tourism Expo in Bali Nusa Dua Convention Centre.

The workshops aim to equip participants with greater in-depth knowledge to tackle the challenges facing

the packaging industry today and prepare for the competitive advantages towards the coming up Asean

Economic Community market opportunities.

The packaging training course will help to strengthen participants in packaging capabilities, providing a level of

insight and understanding of the packaging industry that adds real and measurable value to careers and businesses.

Packaging Workshop A has a focus on paper board, rigid plastic packaging & labels while Packaging Workshop

B locks on to flexible packaging, tubes and paper board packaging. The packaging training course focuses on

packaging technology and will be run by the AIP.

NEW MEMBERSThe AIP would like to welcome the following new Members...

Elma Collins Associate VIC Dylan Fisher Associate NSWStephen Flaherty Associate VICHournaz Meshgi Associate NSWKaren Roberts Thomson Member NZ

AIP EDUCATION DIRECTOR HEADS TO INDONESIA

JOIN THE AIP LINKED IN GROUP TODAY

The AIP recognises the changing role of social media as an additional means of reaching our members, sponsors, and industry contacts across Australasia as an international group. The AIP has a Linked in Group and we invite you to join your peers who have already connected.

Linkedin: Australian Institute of Packaging.

PH: +61 7 3278 4490 [email protected] www.aipack.com.au

BUILD YOUR PACKAGING CAREER ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS WITH THE AIP

The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) is at the forefront of packaging training and education in Australasia; helping to shape the careers of generations of packaging professionals - from packaging technologists to international packaging business leaders along with a host of people in associated disciplines - sales and marketing, purchasing, production and environment.

MAKE 2014 THE YEAR YOU INVEST IN YOUR CAREER.

http://au.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2077547

http://au.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2077547

AIP NEWSLETTER MARCH 20142

POSITION AVAILABLE WITH SIMPLOT

PACKAGING DEVELOPMENT OFFICERJob no: 492513Work type: Full timeLocation: Melbourne Metro

An exciting opportunity currently exists for an energetic and detailed individual to join our Packaging team as Packaging Development Officer. Based at our Mentone head office and reporting into the Packaging Development Manager, this role will be responsible for gathering, maintaining and controlling packaging specifications data as well as providing general support for products utilising existing packaging formats.

Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:• To support product development projects that have pre-defined packaging development requirements by

supplying required packaging dielines, specifications, suppliers details, lead times and key manufacturing contacts

• Delivery of packaging specification data for Supply Chain, Quality and Innovation and Marketing.• Liaise with packaging suppliers to ensure provision of required specification data.• Assist Packaging Development Manager and Packaging Technologist with specification provision.To be successful in this role you will ideally have demonstrated experience in a similar role. You consider your attention to detail as a real strength and have a continuous improvement mindset looking to identify opportunities to build on current processes. Your strong communication skills allow you to build strong cross-functional relationships to achieve outcomes. Lastly you are a team player that enjoys working within a high achieving positive environment.

If this sounds like you, then apply online – click here.

AIP PARTNERS

Find out how your company can become a partner of the AIP by emailing [email protected]

http://secure.pageuppeople.com/apply/540/aw/applicationForm/initApplication.asp?lJobID=492513&sLanguage=en&sSourcePointer=aw&lJobSourceTypeID=808

AIP NEWSLETTER MARCH 2014 3

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LATEST AIP ACTIVITIES FOR 2014

ALL MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND ANY EVENTS ACROSS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALANDTo register to attend any of the events simply email [email protected] or visit the events page on www.aipack.com.au

NZ

VIC

QLDAIP FRUCOR SITE VISIT

MONDELĒZ INTERNATIONAL SITE VISIT

AIP TECHNICAL LOUNGE

When: Wednesday 5th of MarchWhere: Frucor Beverages, AucklandTime: 10.00 am

When: Wednesday 12th of MarchWhere: Mondelēz International Ringwood Food Innovation Centre, VICTime: 10.00 am

Splitting into two groups a personalised packaging touch will be applied to the visit. AIP Members will ‘walk the line’ to view non-carbonated beverage lines PET filling lines, can lines, and a PET blow fill line. The visit will be interactive and will talk about what it takes to make Frucor manufacturing effective in supporting the packaging aspirations of it marketing team/s. Be prepared to walk, talk, get hot and sticky in the juice environment of Frucor Beverages Ltd.

All AIP Attendees have the opportunity to take a tour through the new Food Innovation Centre at Mondelēz International. Facilities included in the tour include the Design & 3D printing Lab, Virtual Store, Sensorium and Table-top Knowledge mapping room.

Tanya BardenDirector, Sustainability, Trade and Innovation Australian Food and Grocery CouncilThe food, beverage and grocery manufacturing industry is under pressure from a range of factors including rising costs, retail price deflation, a high Australian dollar, low consumer confidence and weak economic growth. Yet despite the challenges, the industry has remained resilient compared to other manufacturing sectors.

When: Wednesday the 5th of MarchWhere: Queensland Cricketers Club Time: 10.00 amSpeaker:

THE STATE OF THE FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY REPORT BY AFGC

EXCLUSIVE WOOLWORTHS IN-STORE & IN-DC SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING (SFP) TRAINING

When: Wednesday the 19th of March NSW IN-DC SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING

QLD IN-DC SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING VIC IN-DC SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING

NSW IN-STORE SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING

QLD IN-STORE SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING

VIC IN-STORE SHELF-FRIENDLY PACKAGING

When: Tuesday the 18th of March

When: Monday the 24th of MarchWhen: Tuesday the 25th of MarchWhen: Thursday the 27th of MarchWhen: Friday the 28th of March

The AIP is pleased to announce that it is continuing its innovative initiative with Woolworths for the third time by offering exclusive and intensive in-store Shelf-Friendly Packaging training. In addition, off the back of feedback from the attendees at the last series of training a second day will be offered for In-DC Training. This intensive training is unique to the AIP and is led by a trainer from IGD in the UK. This training will be open to everyone in the industry, members and non-members alike. Limited spots will be available for each date.

Endorsed and sponsored in kind by

AMBIENT & CHILLED HANDS-ON TRAINING LIMITED SPOTS!

NSWAIP PARMALAT SITE VISIT

When: Wednesday 26th of MarchWhere: Parmalat Lidcombe, NSWTime: 10.00 am

The Paramalat site visit is designed for AIP Members to gain an understanding of how white and flavoured milk is manufactured from processing to distribution.


When: 23rd to 25th of SeptemberWhere: ASB Showgrounds Auckland, New ZealandTime: 9.00 am

AIP TECHNICAL DINNER

INTRODUCTION TO EXTRUSION BLOW MOULDING HALF-DAY TRAINING COURSE

LABELLING & MATCHING THE LABEL WITH THE PACKAGEHALF-DAY TRAINING COURSE

NSW

QLD

When: Wednesday the 14th of MayWhere: Oatlands Golf Course Club HouseSpeakers:

When: Wednesday the 28th of MayWhere: Mt Ommaney HotelTime: 10.00 amPresenter: Stephen Barter MAIP

When: Wednesday the 23rd of JulyWhere: UPM Raflatac, Braeside, VICTime: 10.00 amPresenter: Carol Lawrence FAIP Environment & Sustainability Specialist UPM Raflatac Oceania

www.foodtechpacktech.co.nz

Gwen BlakeManaging Director, Boxer & Co There are a plethora of considerations for packaging designers to bear in mind to ensure they adhere to legalities and keep themselves and their clients out of deep water.

Sharon GivoniPrincipal Solicitor, Sharon Givoni ConsultingThere are many questions and misconceptions that people in the packaging industry have about how they can protect their intellectual property, whether it is your brand, the shape, the way it folds and even the colour (Tiffany’s blue box being a classic example).

Extrusion Blow Moulding is a challenging and complex process. The Extrusion Blow Moulding process is capable of delivering a wide range of Plastic Bottles and Hollow Plastic parts to suit almost any Rigid Packaging and Industrial application.

How do you select the right type of label to suit the package and carry the product branding from the filling and labelling line right through to the consumer?

Self-adhesive labelling has evolved as the most widely used method of product decoration, being innovative and versatile for such a wide variety of packages. This half-day training course is designed to give a comprehensive guide to labelling and how to navigate through the myriad of options available for each style of packaging.

Foodtech Packtech is the most important trade event for the New Zealand Food Technology and Packaging Technology industries.

This biennial event gives you the opportunity to come face-to-face with the experts behind the key innovations entering the New Zealand market.

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LATEST AIP ACTIVITIES FOR 2014ALL MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND ANY EVENTS ACROSS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALANDTo register to attend any of the events simply email [email protected] or visit the events page on www.aipack.com.au

COME & SEE THE AIP ON STAND 2037FOODTECH PACKTECH NZ

VICSPC ARDMONA SITE VISIT LIMITED SPOTS!

When: Wednesday 2nd of AprilWhere: SPC Ardmona, VICTime: 10.00 am

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, PACKAGING AND LABELLING (LEGAL)HALF-DAY TRAINING COURSE NSW

When: Wednesday the 14th of MayWhere: Oatlands Golf Course Club HouseTime: 10.00 amPresenter: Sharon Givoni

This half-day training course will provide attendees an overview of important considerations relating to packaging, labelling and Intellectual Property laws. VIC

NEW COURSE

AIP NATIONAL CONFERENCE NSWWhen: Tuesday 17th and Wednesday the 18th of June Packaging & Processing WeekWhere: Sofitel Wentworth 61-101 Phillip Street Sydney NSW 2000 What: The biennial AIP National Conference is the largest

packaging conference of its kind in Australia and New Zealand. Run by industry for industry. The AIP National Conference has been leading the way in professional and personal development for decades.


VIC

When: 8th to 14th May 2014Where: Dusselldorf, Germany Decisions about which polymer to chose or what the

effect on shelf life will be if a change is made in package dimensions or polymer type are often based on trial and error or intuition. This workshop is an attempt to fill that gap with respect to plastic packaging by discussing the basic principles behind deteriorative reactions in foods, indices of failure, polymer selection and shelf life.

When: 26th to the 27th of MarchWhere: Riverside Hotel, BrisbanePresenter: Dr Gordon Robertson FAIPTime: 10.00 am

PROFESSIONAL WORKSHOP ON PLASTIC PACKAGING AND SHELF LIFE

INDUSTRY EVENTS

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE LATEST INDUSTRY EVENTS FOR 2014

PACK A PALLET APP

ALL MEMBERS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND ANY EVENTS ACROSS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALANDTo register to attend any of the events simply email [email protected] or visit the events page on www.aipack.com.au

PACK A PALLET is great iOS app to quickly and easily optimise a pallet load of product onto a standard 1165 x 1165 pallet. The results provide Australian pallet patterns and will identify the number of packs on the pallet deck as well as the number high.

GENERATE A PDF FOR PRINTING OR FORWARDING.

Very soon the android version will be availablePrice $15.99

https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/pack-a-pallet/id735917888?mt=8

Our next development will be 1200 x 1000 pallet size for both platforms.Pack a Pallet is supported by experienced technicians from the packaging industry.

See www.aussiepacknship.com.au for PC programs of higher capability.

PACK A PALLET APP NOW AVAILABLE!

Pack a Pallet is a great App for both iOS and Android platforms, to quickly and easily optimise a pallet load of product onto a standard Australian 1165 x 1165mm pallet. The results provide Australian

pallet patterns and will identify the number of packs on the pallet deck as well as the number high, based on the load height that the user requires. The load height entered, always includes the height of the pallet.

Next enter the external length, width and depth of the shipper. Note, minimum length and width dimensions calculated are 200mm x 150mm. The iOS App also produces a 3D image that can be manipulated by hand. Unfortunately the Android platform does not provide this facility. The best solution can be selected, then a pdf file produced to print, save, email or message.

Every sales person in the box industry needs this simple App. Also anyone involved in preparing a presentation for supply to Aldi, Coles or Woolworths and anyone

needing to access a pallet pattern for printing onto their shippers, particularly when they are not at their desk, will find this economical App to be a great tool. Price is just $15.99. Our next development will be 1200 x 1000mm export pallet size for both platforms.

Pack a Pallet is supported by very experienced technicians from the packaging industry. See www.aussiepacknship.com.au for PC programs of higher capability and also for any other packaging related support. Following is typical of the feedback we are receiving for this new App:

“ Just wanted to let you know how much I have been using your app and how much easier it has made things for me. It’s fantastic.” Tania Schwede, Oceanic Agencies.

For further information please contact [email protected]

www.gordonlrobertson.com

2,700 exhibitors from more than 60 countries will present their latest ideas, innovate concepts and technological visions at interpack. - not only in equipment and machinery for packaging and processing, but also in production tools for packaging materials, materials themselves, and services for the entire industry.

www.interpack.com


Designed for everyone, from packaging designers, technologists and engineers to sales and marketing people. The biennial AIP National Conference is the largest packaging conference of its kind in Australia and New Zealand. Run by industry for industry. The AIP National Conference has been leading the way in professional and personal development for decades. With speakers already confirmed from Mondelēz International, Kimberly Clark, Campbell Arnotts, LION, Sunrice, Coca-Cola, Nestlē, Diageo, Simplot, OI and Amcor Flexibles, to name just a few the 2014 AIP National Conference will be the only place to be on the 17th and 18th of June.

MARK THESE DATES IN YOUR DIARY

TUESDAY 17TH AND WEDNESDAY THE 18TH OF JUNEPACKAGING & PROCESSING WEEK

Sofitel Wentworth, 61-101 Phillip Street, SYDNEY NSW 2000

2014 AIP NATIONAL CONFERENCE: PACKAGING & INNOVATION EXCELLENCE

MEDIA PARTNERS

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

A S I A P A C I F I C P A C K A G I N G

A S I A P A C I F I C P A C K A G I N G

PACKAGING + PROCESSING

OWNED AND PRESENTED BY THE APPMA

30TH ANNIVERSARY

new age businessCO.PTY.LTD.


The Australian Packaging and Processing Machinery Association (APPMA), in conjunction with the Australian Institute of

Packaging (AIP), are pleased to announce that submissions are now open for the sixth annual scholarship program which will enable a packaging engineer the opportunity to complete a Diploma in Packaging Technology to the value of over $9000.

The Diploma in Packaging Technology is an internationally recognised Level 5 foundation qualification that will prepare students to take responsibility for packaging operations at any level through the supply chain. The qualification is

comprehensive, and provides an opportunity to study the principles of packaging, packaging materials and packaging processes.

According to Mark Dingley, Chairman of the APPMA, the Annual Scholarship Program is a unique opportunity for a packaging engineer to attain a Diploma in Packaging Technology and further their education in the packaging industry. “The APPMA has been offering this educational program now for six years and we have been very pleased with the calibre of winners; all of whom are busy completing their Diplomas as we speak,” Mr Dingley said.

Jamie Schellebeck MAIP, who was 2013 scholarship winner, is a Packaging Engineer at Amcor Fibre Packaging.

“Winning the scholarship in 2013 was a wonderful opportunity for me and I am eager to gain more technical expertise in the packaging industry by undertaking the Diploma in Packaging Technology. I look forward to graduating from the course in a few years.” Mr Schelleback said.

Mr Ralph Moyle, MAIP, National President of the AIP, added that the AIP is at the forefront of packaging

training and education in Australasia; helping to shape the careers of generations of packaging professionals - from packaging technologists to international packaging business leaders along with a host of people in associated disciplines - sales and marketing, purchasing, production and environment.

“The Diploma in Packaging Technology is an internationally recognised Degree that will provide exemplary skills to graduates and we commend the APPMA for their long-term commitment to educational growth within the packaging industry. We encourage all packaging engineers in Australia to apply.” Mr Moyle said.

Application forms are now available for the APPMA 2014 Scholarship program and can be accessed by emailing [email protected] or [email protected] or visiting either www.appma.com.au or www.aipack.com.au

Submissions must be received by Close of Business on Friday the 11th of April with the 2014 winner being announced as a part of Packaging & Processing Week which will be held alongside the AIP National Conference on Tuesday the 17th and Wednesday the 18th of June at the Sofitel Sydney.

2014 APPMA SCHOLARSHIP NOW OPEN

APPLICATIONS CLOSE 11TH OF APRILCLICK HERE FOR AN APPLICATION FORM

2013 Winner: Jamie Schellebeck MAIP

2012 Winner: Anna Roland 2009 winner: Rebecca Du2010 Winner: Natalie Quarrell2011 Winner: Jude Van der Zalm


The Australian Football team Collingwood has traditionally turned out in white and black striped guernseys, but now

also have an alternative stripe. Fine for promotional purposes but if the dark and white stripes on a barcode are not correct strife will follow.

As Sean Carter Product Manager Advanced Industrial Sensors at Sick Pty Ltd stated “there is nothing more exasperating than a barcode that cannot be read”. He then explained that the solutions are quite simple and that a few minutes of investigation can save the cost of a call out by a specialised technician.

Sean has identified seven deadly sins of barcodes. The first is the most often discovered failure. At the end of every barcode is a white space that is called the quiet zone. This is akin to the full stops and the spaces in a body of text. Without the quiet zone the barcode is not readable to the scanner.

There are technical considerations in the production of barcodes but generally speaking they may only vary within certain limits.

Printing must ensure clarity and contrast with all the bars vertical and straight in a contrasting colour. Red printed barcodes are unable to be read as the most code readers show red as blank. Also the print immediately around the edges of the quiet zones such as vertical lines and text can cause strife. Shrinking the barcode size has a limit because it can make the resolution unreadable.

Keep the scanning area free from dust and vapours and have the barcode sufficiently illuminated. Additionally don’t place the label behind reflective plastic. Poor printing will result in missing bars or bleeding that will cause no reads.

There are several types of barcode readers so it is vital that the label and the scanner are matched. Positioning of the scanner is also critical and there are many variables to be considered but, where scanning distances vary, auto focus technology can be a saviour. Using the right scanner for the right code should not need to be explained but there are new technologies coming on stream all the time and not all scanners read all codes.

Technological advances help to overcome most problems however some human faults cannot be overcome. We were left to consider an example where the barcode content and the printed numerals were completely different – a simple design error that hadn’t been picked up and caused issues that took ages to solve.

Sean was followed by Steven Petinakis of CSIRO who could well have an application for a barcode to display his title which is: - Project Leader Biopolymer/composites Future Manufacturing National Research Flagship.

Advice that his name was a Greek word for rooster was forthcoming but far from being a feather duster Steven was ‘cock-a-hoop’. He explained in much technical detail the development of an expanded foamed product not from polystyrene (EPS) but from the environmentally more acceptable Poly (lactic acid) (PLA).

The product concept and development was conducted in association with the industry partner RMAX, an Australian company, which was funded by a grant from the Victorian Government.

RMAX promotes itself thus: - The RMAX products are seen across an expanse of industries – from home insulation to cold chain solutions, agriculture to aerospace. From white goods to wave riding! From artistic to

zany! When it comes to rigid cellular plastic foams no one does it better, more consistently and more professionally than RMAX.

Quite understandable how a company with those credentials collaborated with the CSIRO’s Future Manufacturing Flagship to develop a more sustainable alternative to EPS. It is acknowledged that although EPS can be recycled there are a number of shortcomings including regulations about disposal of waste and high landfill costs.

Expanded PLA overcomes most of these concerns as it is biodegradable and compostable with the feedstock derived from renewable sources. The foaming agent is liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) giving a cell structure almost indescribable from EPS.

The foamed material will degrade within accepted time frames and does so completely unlike some other materials promoted as compostable that only degrade partially. Steven explained that the foamed material degrades quicker than unfoamed beads due to a more homogeneous and very low density open cell structure.

CSIRO have now patented a process for producing very low density foams in a manner analogous to current polystyrene processes. Questioning by members revealed that considerations of possible limitations are well in hand.

Tony Seers Managing Director of Seeplas the exclusive Australian Agent for NatureWorks rounded off a varied but most informative evening with visual aids, backed up by innate knowledge about the opportunities to achieve Zero Waste.

The 2012 London Olympics provided 14 billion take away meals in compostable containers. This was contained in 120 million pieces of eco-friendly packaging, collected on site and

STRIPES SPACE SAVE STRIFE! Written by Michael B Halley FAIP


then transported to a composting area. In nine weeks it was ready to fertilise crops that can be converted into new packaging. This closed loop helped to divert an estimated 850 tonnes of material from landfill.

Over in the USA there is a Green Sports Alliance comprising of 190 teams of all persuasions that has similar targets as the London Olympics but with much more hype and incentives. We viewed a video about the Portland Trail Blazers and how they approached the issue and the manner in which they changed consumer attitudes over as little as two months.

Since 2008 over US$600,000 worth of savings have been realised by simply composting food contaminated waste. Studies of consumer behavior led to the establishment of the first electric car recharge facility at a sports ground and undercover secure bicycle parking.

The zero waste attitudes soon spread beyond the walls of the sports stadium and recycling extended into the general population.

The Blazers invested $560,000 in operations improvements around the stadium. By 2011 the team had recouped $411,000 in energy savings, $165,000 in water savings and $260,000 in waste diversion savings, for a total of $836,000.

Tony explained that a venue that first baulked at the higher cost of compostable drink cups were convinced that the cost to send the alternative to landfill made the eco-friendly cups the most economical.

For the second year at the 2013 Waste Management Phoenix Open Golf tournament was targeting zero waste. The initiative is aimed at controlling materials brought into the event and

educating vendors and patrons about proper disposal of materials, so that eventually zero waste is sent to the landfill. In 2013, Waste Management’s goal is to divert 100 percent of tournament waste away from landfills and into recycling and composting facilities.

Many questions were posed and answered by the three presenters who were then presented with a plaque and gift by Michael Grima on behalf of AIP and SPE that jointly brought the program to fruition.

As Collingwood are already barcoded and the entry to the ground where they play are already controlled it would seem that they and the AFL could well become the catalyst for a zero waste sports event in Australia. It is certain that a closed venue will be the catalyst for changing consumer attitudes.

STRIPES SPACE SAVE STRIFE! cont’dWritten by Michael B Halley FAIP

INDEPENDENT MEASUREMENT OF PACKAGING PERFORMANCE

Permeability testing - oxygen transmission and water vapour transmission.

Analysis to determine what types of plastic materials are present in a sample, including structures of multilayered packaging.

Mechanical testing of plastic films – tensile strength and related properties, tear resistance, puncture resistance, dart impact resistance and others.

Plus many other tests.

Australia 1300 GunnLabNew Zealand 0800 GunnLab

Email: [email protected]

www.gunnlab.com.au

INDEPENDENT MEASUREMENT OF PACKAGING PERFORMANCE

Permeability testing - oxygen transmission and water vapour transmission.

Analysis to determine what types of plastic materials are present in a sample, including structures of multilayered packaging.

Mechanical testing of plastic films – tensile strength and related properties, tear resistance, puncture resistance, dart impact resistance and others.

Plus many other tests.

Australia 1300 GunnLabNew Zealand 0800 GunnLab

Email: [email protected]

www.gunnlab.com.au


Australia’s two major retailers, Coles and Woolworths, provide their requirements for trade stack optimisation on their websites. For detailed information on their needs, go to:■ Coles: www.supplierportal.coles.com.au■ Woolworths: www.wowlink.com.au

RETAILER REQUIREMENTS

11

E

Preventing pallets from blowing their stacks

ffEcTIvE optimisation of primary packs into trade unit packs which are then stacked on pallets often provides much-needed savings for FMCG and other suppliers of packaged goods.

To achieve such optimisation, sup-pliers first need to understand the re-quirements of their customers.

Retailers commonly state their require-ments for pallet deck usage, which gener-ally include ‘no overhang’ and maximum height. Such requirements are often linked to the weight of the trade unit.

The next step for suppliers is to evaluate current packaging and pallet loading to de-termine whether there is any opportunity to better use the pallet deck and cubic vol-ume for the load.

I often find that the parameters allowed by the customers are not being fully utilised. For example, load stack heights set below the requirements or not fully utilising the pallet deck or weight allowance.

PALLET PITfALLSCaution is required when attempting to opti-mise these values. Trade unit dimensions and

other characteristics can affect the ability of human or automated palletisers to achieve certain pallet patterns without creating un-packable patterns or inadvertent overhang.

Common pitfalls include trying to use too much of the pallet deck. This becomes more problematic the more trade units there are per layer.

Consideration also needs to be given to the physical variations in pallet deck di-mensions that occur commonly due to age, wear, damage and fabrication variations.

Understanding the nature of the product and the packaging assists with determin-ing whether load security can be enhanced by column stacking or alternating layers.

WEIghINg ThE coSTSCost savings can be achieved when the weight of the load on the bottom layer of trade units is evaluated.

Further considerations often revolve around other methods of unitising the load, such as slip sheets, and the means of transporting the product to the customer, including alternative storage conditions.

Optimising the volume on the mode of

transport can be of benefit. This includes limitations of truck deck and volume, as well as shipping container deck, volume and whether the shipping container is hand-loaded or pallet-loaded.

gET WITh ThE PRogRAMPalletising optimisation programs make this work quick and effective, providing for manipulation of the output to achieve cost savings through investigation of current or planned new packs.

Every FMCG business has differing needs and opportunities for improvement. With some focused training, users of these programs usually find many opportunities for savings.

Often these savings are found to be sub-stantial, proving to be just what cost-stressed suppliers need to keep them com-petitive and profitable.

Technology is making this task easier. Now pallet configurations can be accessed quickly and cheaply, in the field, using a mobile phone or tablet.

A word of advice: when you determine new pallet load configurations, be sure to upload that information to your customer’s website, to avoid complications and delays when delivering the next consignment. ■

*Ron Mines FAIP, knownas the "Boxologist", is a consultant to the box and packaging industry. His 40-plus years of experience and close involvement in the industry provides con-siderable credibility among his peers.

Stacking primary packs onto pallets is a task that requires careful attention to stack geometries. Ron Mines looks at the potential pitfalls involved and suggests solutions.

January-February 2014 www.packagingnews.com.au tech speak

poorly stacked pallets can prevent goods from

being transported in acceptable condition.

THIS ARTICLE WAS RE-PRODUCED WITH PERMISSION FROM PKN PACKAGING NEWS

The real art and science of

COMPANY PROFILE AUSTRALIAN INHIBITOR www.packagingnews.com.au January-February 2014

At the 2013 Australian Packaging De-sign Awards, run by the Packaging Council of Australia (PCA), Austra-lian Inhibitor demonstrated its ca-pacity for innovation with the intro-duction of Preservation Foil – a new barrier material developed specifi-cally for the protection and packag-

ing of art works and historical artefacts, winning the gold award in the Industrial category. The company was also recently notified that Preservation Foil had won a gold award in the World Packaging Or-ganisation’s 2013-2014 Worldstar Awards to be presented at interpack in 2014.

This innovation has its roots in an-other Australian Inhibitor success story. It was developed from knowl-edge gained in the manufacture of the highly successful military-approved VCI Ferro Foil – a plastic/foil laminate incorporating a vapour phase inhibi-tor designed for the storage of military equipment from handguns to tanks, which was awarded gold in the 2011 PCA Awards.

PreservAtion of Precious cArgoBuilding on this foundation, the new Preser-vation Foil demonstrates the company’s in-novative ability to respond to an important need in the art world. Initially the new mate-rial has been designed specifically for the packaging of valuable paintings and is being used by the National Gallery in two states.

The packaging of valuable art works is not something which is necessarily con-strained by cost. In terms of monetary val-ue, the recent sale in November 2013 of three pictures for the sum of $125 million

Australian inhibitor’s breakthrough development in barrier material for protecting valuable art works has already won two major industry accolades. Professor Harry Lovell takes a look at the technology behind the innovation.

With effective control of the atmosphere within the pack, the physical protection provided by

Preservation foil is reflected in the

innovative engineering of the plastic laminate.”

20

provides some quantification of the value of significant art works, but even these pale into insignificance when one looks at the works of Cézanne, Picasso, Titian – valued in excess of $100 million. Leonar-do Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa tops the list at just under $300,000,000!

Transporting these rare and valuable paintings around the globe to exhibitions demands the maximum protection dur-ing travel, handling and intermediate storage. This movement of valuable art works has grown steadily over the last de-cade as the financial returns have been worthwhile both to the host gallery and the owners of the pictures.

The new barrier material is a multi-layer structure which is water vapour-proof, greaseproof, flexible and heat sealable. The material is used to form a tailored bag for each piece of art which can be supported by an internal rigid frame if so required.

AtmosPHeric controL The bag is fitted with two one-way valves. One valve is used for nitrogen gas flush-ing while the second valve is attached to

packaging


The real art and science of

COMPANY PROFILE AUSTRALIAN INHIBITOR www.packagingnews.com.au January-February 2014

At the 2013 Australian Packaging De-sign Awards, run by the Packaging Council of Australia (PCA), Austra-lian Inhibitor demonstrated its ca-pacity for innovation with the intro-duction of Preservation Foil – a new barrier material developed specifi-cally for the protection and packag-

ing of art works and historical artefacts, winning the gold award in the Industrial category. The company was also recently notified that Preservation Foil had won a gold award in the World Packaging Or-ganisation’s 2013-2014 Worldstar Awards to be presented at interpack in 2014.

This innovation has its roots in an-other Australian Inhibitor success story. It was developed from knowl-edge gained in the manufacture of the highly successful military-approved VCI Ferro Foil – a plastic/foil laminate incorporating a vapour phase inhibi-tor designed for the storage of military equipment from handguns to tanks, which was awarded gold in the 2011 PCA Awards.

PreservAtion of Precious cArgoBuilding on this foundation, the new Preser-vation Foil demonstrates the company’s in-novative ability to respond to an important need in the art world. Initially the new mate-rial has been designed specifically for the packaging of valuable paintings and is being used by the National Gallery in two states.

The packaging of valuable art works is not something which is necessarily con-strained by cost. In terms of monetary val-ue, the recent sale in November 2013 of three pictures for the sum of $125 million

Australian inhibitor’s breakthrough development in barrier material for protecting valuable art works has already won two major industry accolades. Professor Harry Lovell takes a look at the technology behind the innovation.

With effective control of the atmosphere within the pack, the physical protection provided by

Preservation foil is reflected in the

innovative engineering of the plastic laminate.”

20

provides some quantification of the value of significant art works, but even these pale into insignificance when one looks at the works of Cézanne, Picasso, Titian – valued in excess of $100 million. Leonar-do Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa tops the list at just under $300,000,000!

Transporting these rare and valuable paintings around the globe to exhibitions demands the maximum protection dur-ing travel, handling and intermediate storage. This movement of valuable art works has grown steadily over the last de-cade as the financial returns have been worthwhile both to the host gallery and the owners of the pictures.

The new barrier material is a multi-layer structure which is water vapour-proof, greaseproof, flexible and heat sealable. The material is used to form a tailored bag for each piece of art which can be supported by an internal rigid frame if so required.

AtmosPHeric controL The bag is fitted with two one-way valves. One valve is used for nitrogen gas flush-ing while the second valve is attached to

packaging

THIS ARTICLE WAS RE-PRODUCED WITH PERMISSION FROM PACKAGING NEWS PKN


■ Three layer co-extruded oriented polypropylene

■ 19µm extrusion layer■ Foil■ 19µm extrusion layer■ LD/LLDPE film, three layer co-extruded

PreservAtion foiL’s muLti-LAyer bArrier mAteriAL is comPrised of:

January-February 2014 www.packagingnews.com.au COMPANY PROFILE AUSTRALIAN INHIBITOR 21

an oxygen flow meter. This is a vital stage which ensures that the gallery standard of a 0.3 per cent anoxic ox-ygen level is achieved. (The “anox-ic” state is simply an environment without oxygen, which is lethal for micro-organisms and insects. It is not to be confused with anaerobic condi-tions in which micro-organisms de-rive their oxygen through cellular res-piration.) There are also side benefits with the removal of oxygen, namely

the prevention of colour fading through oxidation. A humidity indicator can also be incorporated. If required, the bags can include a clear visual panel for the identification of the contents.

With effective control of the atmosphere within the pack, the physical protection provided by Preservation Foil is reflected in the innovative engineering of the plastic laminate. A high degree of physical protec-tion is paramount. Thus the demands on the material are substantial; it must be strong yet flexible within defined limits,

impervious, sealable and capable of hold-ing a positive pressure. This is achieved by a multi-layer barrier material comprised of:• Three-layer co-extruded oriented poly-

propylene• 19µm extrusion layer• Foil• 19µm extrusion layer• LD/LLDPE film, three layer co-extruded

The tensile strength is 6.2 kilo-newtons per metre and its external slip coefficient is 0.385. (Standard Test Method for Static and Kinetic Coefficients of Friction of Plastic Film and Sheeting [ASTM 1894]). The ma-terial has a nominal yield of 5405 square metres per tonne.

The recommended sealing temperature range is 195°C-220°C. A bead profile 6mm wide ensures the highest integrity of the seal. This has resulted from the installation by Australian Inhibitor of a custom-de-signed, 16.5 metre, stainless steel continu-ous sealing system. Certified as meeting Military Specification Defence 1000c, the new system meets the highest standards in seal integrity.

The inflated pack, with its composite ma-terial protection and cushioning provided by the anoxic atmosphere coupled to its structural design, flexes without distortion. It offers maximum cushioning area and also

results in neat uniform packs, thus facilitat-ing further packaging into larger units. The fact that the material can be tailored to meet specific requirements means that it has an infinitely large market, including the scien-tific and medical sectors.

stAnding uP to insPection Ancillary factors which have to be consid-ered concern air transportation and trans-fer through border inspection services. The ability to control the internal pressure is an essential feature with respect to air trans-portation, and the ability of the design to accommodate these requirements within current practice. A typical example is that of the Boeing 767 cruising at an altitude of 39,000 feet with the cabin pressurised to an altitude of 6,900 feet.

The Australian Quarantine and Inspec-tion Service should be facilitated by the new pack design making inspection easier.

Specialist packaging is a challenging area and while the physical geometry of items can be difficult to accommodate, Preservation Foil has the potential to ame-liorate this problem.

This is an innovative development built on past experience and a proven record in the demanding area of defence and will doubtless open up new markets for the Australian Inhibitor company. ■

kilo-newtons per metre: Preservation foil’s tensile strength

6.2

LEFT: Les Amy, general manager – research, design and development at Australian Inhibitor, with doyen of the Australian packaging industry, Professor Harry Lovell.

BELOW, LEFT TO RIGHT: Australian Inhibitor’s R&D laboratory manager, David Lade, carries out (1) a foil weight test, (2) a foil gauge test, and (3) a lab corrosion test.

1 2 3


22 COMPANY PROFILE AUSTRALIAN INHIBITOR www.packagingnews.com.au January-February 2014

es Amy has been actively involved in the packaging industry for over 35 years, and during this time has been a member of numerous industry associations in a pro-fessional capacity, including a stint serv-ing on the board of the Australian Insti-tute of Packaging (from 1997-2000). A designer to the core, Les Amy enjoys all

aspects of industrial design and develop-ment of speciality papers, films, foils and laminates; taking the idea from conception and research through to end trade mark and patent approval.

He began his career in the printing indus-try with Leigh Mardon where his role cov-ered designing folding board, art work preparation, and developing print separa-tions for printing/ cartoning machinery.

Subsequently he joined MPI to develop sales of capital equipment, including brand names such as Automac, Roure, Arenco, Jacob White, MAF Rejafix, Rat-cliffe, and IWKA.

In 1979 he took over Eckersley, Amy & Davids (originally just Eckersley Pty Ltd), which manufactured heat sealing and shrink wrapping equipment. His persis-tence in developing machinery to world class standards paid off when, in 1983, he won the prestigious Australian Design Award (presented by the Design Council of Australia) for his achievements.

His next step was to join packaging giant Visy Board’s packaging systems division where he was involved in sales and mar-keting of specialised corrugated machin-ery to back up the pre-print and corrugated board divisions.

From paper and board he moved into plastics, joining Ruskin Plastics where he was charged with the task of developing va-pour corrosion inhibitor (VCI) products and alternative resin constructions.

This expertise served him well when, in 2000, he joined Australian Inhibitor, a pa-per-coating company which specialised in VCI chemicals employed to prevent rust and corrosion of metal components and al-loys used in the engineering, automotive and related industries.

Dramatic challenges facing the engineer-ing industries, specifically tin plate produc-tion, necessitated the rapid move towards plastics and the integration of VCIs into both flexible and rigid plastic products.

Under Amy’s guidance, the Australian Inhibitor team’s rigorous laboratory devel-opment of co-extruded VCI rigid plastics saw the company establish a firm reputa-tion for excellence with the automotive in-dustry, and garner numerous industrial packaging awards. ■

The expert behind the innovation

Australian Design Award 1983 Presented by Design Council of Australia for development of specialised plastics capital equipment.

Australian Packaging Awards 2005 – nominee Designed VCI wheel protector for Holden HSV Monaro export, nominated for Cryovac Technical Innovation Award by Packaging Council of Australia.

Australian Packaging Awards 2006 Gold Technical Innovation – Export Award; Silver Industrial Packaging – Export Award for export engine covers for Saab, Opel, Alpha, Isuzu (Holden Australia).

Australian Packaging Design Awards 2011 Gold Industrial Packaging Award for VCI Ferro Foil; Silver Innovation Award for VCI Ferro Foil. Product is employed to wrap expensive military hardware (truck assemblies, guns) and used at military establishments Australia-wide.

Australian Packaging Design Awards 2013 Gold Industrial Packaging Award for nine-layer foil product (Preservation Foil) for the protection of art works of national interest.

World Packaging Organisation Awards 2013-2014 World Packaging Organisation World Star Award for Preservation Foil. Competed against 249 packaging submissions from 35 countries.Award to be presented at interpack 2014, in Dusseldorf, Germany.

AWArds & AccoLAdesno stranger to award-winning design success is Les Amy, general manager of research, design and development at Australian inhibitor, who was instrumental in bringing the company’s latest innovation to market.

ABOVE: A rectifier filled with electronics packed in VCI Ferro Foil, a good example of sound packaging for static storage of a very large item.

BELOW RIGHT: The 2011 award-winning VCI Ferro Foil has applications in military gun and tank packaging as well as for other large-scale vehicles like this CAT Transporter.

Les Amy accepts his award to loud applause at the 2013 Packaging Design Awards.L


22 COMPANY PROFILE AUSTRALIAN INHIBITOR www.packagingnews.com.au January-February 2014

es Amy has been actively involved in the packaging industry for over 35 years, and during this time has been a member of numerous industry associations in a pro-fessional capacity, including a stint serv-ing on the board of the Australian Insti-tute of Packaging (from 1997-2000). A designer to the core, Les Amy enjoys all

aspects of industrial design and develop-ment of speciality papers, films, foils and laminates; taking the idea from conception and research through to end trade mark and patent approval.

He began his career in the printing indus-try with Leigh Mardon where his role cov-ered designing folding board, art work preparation, and developing print separa-tions for printing/ cartoning machinery.

Subsequently he joined MPI to develop sales of capital equipment, including brand names such as Automac, Roure, Arenco, Jacob White, MAF Rejafix, Rat-cliffe, and IWKA.

In 1979 he took over Eckersley, Amy & Davids (originally just Eckersley Pty Ltd), which manufactured heat sealing and shrink wrapping equipment. His persis-tence in developing machinery to world class standards paid off when, in 1983, he won the prestigious Australian Design Award (presented by the Design Council of Australia) for his achievements.

His next step was to join packaging giant Visy Board’s packaging systems division where he was involved in sales and mar-keting of specialised corrugated machin-ery to back up the pre-print and corrugated board divisions.

From paper and board he moved into plastics, joining Ruskin Plastics where he was charged with the task of developing va-pour corrosion inhibitor (VCI) products and alternative resin constructions.

This expertise served him well when, in 2000, he joined Australian Inhibitor, a pa-per-coating company which specialised in VCI chemicals employed to prevent rust and corrosion of metal components and al-loys used in the engineering, automotive and related industries.

Dramatic challenges facing the engineer-ing industries, specifically tin plate produc-tion, necessitated the rapid move towards plastics and the integration of VCIs into both flexible and rigid plastic products.

Under Amy’s guidance, the Australian Inhibitor team’s rigorous laboratory devel-opment of co-extruded VCI rigid plastics saw the company establish a firm reputa-tion for excellence with the automotive in-dustry, and garner numerous industrial packaging awards. ■

The expert behind the innovation

Australian Design Award 1983 Presented by Design Council of Australia for development of specialised plastics capital equipment.

Australian Packaging Awards 2005 – nominee Designed VCI wheel protector for Holden HSV Monaro export, nominated for Cryovac Technical Innovation Award by Packaging Council of Australia.

Australian Packaging Awards 2006 Gold Technical Innovation – Export Award; Silver Industrial Packaging – Export Award for export engine covers for Saab, Opel, Alpha, Isuzu (Holden Australia).

Australian Packaging Design Awards 2011 Gold Industrial Packaging Award for VCI Ferro Foil; Silver Innovation Award for VCI Ferro Foil. Product is employed to wrap expensive military hardware (truck assemblies, guns) and used at military establishments Australia-wide.

Australian Packaging Design Awards 2013 Gold Industrial Packaging Award for nine-layer foil product (Preservation Foil) for the protection of art works of national interest.

World Packaging Organisation Awards 2013-2014 World Packaging Organisation World Star Award for Preservation Foil. Competed against 249 packaging submissions from 35 countries.Award to be presented at interpack 2014, in Dusseldorf, Germany.

AWArds & AccoLAdesno stranger to award-winning design success is Les Amy, general manager of research, design and development at Australian inhibitor, who was instrumental in bringing the company’s latest innovation to market.

ABOVE: A rectifier filled with electronics packed in VCI Ferro Foil, a good example of sound packaging for static storage of a very large item.

BELOW RIGHT: The 2011 award-winning VCI Ferro Foil has applications in military gun and tank packaging as well as for other large-scale vehicles like this CAT Transporter.

Les Amy accepts his award to loud applause at the 2013 Packaging Design Awards.L



Stephen Barter from the Australian Institute of Packaging sheds light on the best ways to approach blow moulding and the influence it can have on a package’s effectiveness.

The strength and success of a bottle design is a direct descendant of the bottle shape. The shape - which

includes the corners, handles, the neck and panels - governs both the physical performance in filling and the degree of difficulty in moulding; the two are delicately connected and cannot be separated.

Below are some useful pointers and guidelines regarding blow moulding:

ShrinkageOne of the important facts about mould-ing plastic is it shrinks as it cools; the longer it takes to cool the more it shrinks. The mould acts as a heat transfer mecha-nism removing the heat from the plastic at 190 degree celsius down to less than 70 degree celsius, at which point the plastic is a solid and no longer liquid.

VariabilitiesAs the plastic takes the shape of the mould, the plastic becomes variable throughout the bottle, thicker cross sections shrink more than thinner sections inducing stress within bottle features and creating issues like buckled label panels. The best method to reduce this effect is to design contours to reduce thicker sections.

FunctionFeatures can be added to the shape to improve mouldability and function and do

not detract from the appearance. Features like corners act as hinge points for slumping and topload weakness. Using variable radii in corners will increase structural strength; fixed radii will reduce structural strength.

Bottle componentsNeck - orientating the thread start over the part line (opposite the handle) will improve the capping process, the bottle is able to handle downward pressure from the capper when the thread start of the cap lands on top of the thread start of the bottle. In these conditions the bottle is able to bounce back after being hammered by the capper.

Shoulder - making the bottle strong through the shoulder by keeping surfaces in the form of an upside down funnel and compound radii allows the top load to be dispersed down through the bottle into the base. Compound curves reduce plastic and ovality in the neck finish, especially on oval shaped bottles.

Handles - the closer to square or round for the handle crossection the easier the handle will be to mould. As the depth of the handle increases in relation to the handle width the risk of webbing increases, a major quality complaint.

This rule applies to blending the handle out into the bottle; avoid blending the handle by increasing the depth of the handle, only without increasing the width in similar ratios.

Panel features2D or conical curves in label panels make labelling easy. 3D curves in panels will lead to the labels lifting and bubbling. The reason for a conical shape in particular is the increase in the bottle topload strength.

Bulging in the panel is difficult to control, especially with thin walled bottles. Start the design with bulge in the shape and work back by changing only the label panel back to a 2D curve.

Imagine the bottle shape you have in mind and then partially blow up a balloon inside this bottle shape. Take particular note of the corner radii and then factor these into the shape of the bottle. These will not only improve slump resistance, it will also make the bottle easier to mould.

Base cornersBase controls the topload strength and stability of the bottle. Using a simple radius in the base corner will result in poor topload, slump resistance, base rock as well as difficult moulding. Compound curves are essential here.

It is paramount the bottle designer is aware that most design flaws cannot be ‘processed out’ by the moulder. An over-confident moulder can underestimate these details, adding substantial costs to new projects and the finished bottle weight - costs that may be carried for the life of the bottle. F

Blow moulding basics

Packaging

www.foodmag.com.au | Feb/Mar 2014 | Foodmagazine 21


MAKE 2014 THE YEAR YOU INVEST IN YOUR CAREER

The Certificate in Packaging is an internationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to meet the training needs of a wide variety of personnel in packaging, from the new entrant looking for a great start, to design, production, management, sales, marketing or purchasing staff looking to deepen their packaging knowledge.

BUILD YOUR PACKAGING CAREER ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS WITH THE AIP

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February 2014 www.foodtechnology.co.nz

PACKAGING 27

C_2

279

You’ve worked hard to build your brand and reputation.

It’s now time to stand out from the crowd and personalise your packaging.

Confoil can design and print on a range of packaging-

• Aluminium Foil Containers

• Paper Board Containers

• Paper Baking Products

0800 107 620www.confoil.co.nz

This feat has been accomplished by building

stability into the products through process-

ing, packaging, and additives that enable

foods to remain fresh and wholesome

throughout the distribution process.

The terms active packaging and smart pack-

aging refer to packaging systems used with

foods, pharmaceuticals, and several other

types of products. They help extend shelf

life, monitor freshness, display information

on quality, improve safety, and improve

convenience.

Recently this has been updated to include

intelligent functions (sensing, detecting,

recording, tracing, communicating and

applying scientifi c logic) in order to extend

shelf life, enhance safety, improve quality,

provide information and warn about possi-

ble issues.

There is a commercial need to allow prod-

ucts to stay fresh on a retailer’s shelf for

longer. This extension of shelf life is aimed

at slowing down the deterioration of the

product using a range of processes. Each of

the processes is interdependent on packag-

ing to preserve the product in a suspended

state.

The principal mechanisms involved in the

deterioration of processed foods are:

1. Microbiological spoilage sometimes

accompanied by pathogen or germ

development

2. Chemical and enzymatic activity causing

the breakdown of colour, odour, fl avour,

and texture changes

3. Moisture or other vapour migration which

produces changes in texture, water activ-

ity and fl avour

Therefore to enhance shelf life the focus

ought to be on:

• Reducing microbial activity

• Increasing the acidity

• Addition of additives

• Reducing water activity

• Modify the immediate environment (MAP)

Initially extending the shelf life of products

was a supply chain issue but it is now a con-

sumer concern, because freshness coupled

with sustainable packaging has become an

important buying factor.

Consumer demands for convenience have

created new innovations in the food prod-

uct development and packaging industries.

The widespread desire for products to use

in the microwave oven has added further to

the effort. Consumers are demanding more

sustainable packaging solutions that also

perform shelf life-extensions, whilst brand

owners understand the commercial advan-

tages that active packaging technology can

deliver to their products.

In the supply chain more work is being done

on oxygen scavengers, moisture absorbers

and barrier fi lms that will enhance the shelf

life of products. Consumers want packaging

that keeps products clean, ready for eating,

with longer shelf life, product security and

value for money. This remains a big ask, but

if success is to be achieved, packaging tech-

nologists need to rise to these demands.

Active packaging

There is a range of active packaging tech-

niques which are available; the broad

categories are:

• Absorbers/removers

• Release systems

• Self heating/cooling

• Selective permeation

Smart packaging

In conjunction with the developments in

packaging materials which help to extend

and protect shelf life there is also a com-

plimentary group of devices which monitor

the products in the packs. These include

time temperature indicators, leak and gas

indicators which provide an indication to

the consumer of the state or freshness of

the product.

• Time temperature indicators

• Leak or gas indicators

• Freshness indicators

Nanotechnology

One of the fastest growing areas is the ap-

plication of nanotechnology in packaging

materials. As the food market has expanded

to a worldwide marketplace, it is requiring a

longer shelf life. New materials incorporat-

ing nano-particles have been able to reduce

and in some cases eliminate the transmission

of oxygen, and in addition have blocked the

transmission of moisture from the product.

Packaging today not only has to be

multi-functional by meeting the design re-

quirements now, with the added pressure

towards sustainable packaging, it has to

be environmentally friendly in the effort

to reduce our carbon footprint. This event

will provide you with a sound understand-

ing of how and why product innovation for

labeling and packaging is the crux of your

business and how to strategically tap into

your consumer market, successfully engage

them, and as a result increase your profi ts.

With the daily challenges of preserving prod-

uct and minimising losses, growers, packers,

shippers and retailers of produce now have

new packaging options that allow them to

dramatically increase shelf life.

Various packaging technologies can help

food handlers remain competitive by re-

ducing spoilage and delivering consistent

quality products on every shipment. Inno-

vations in packaging for extending shelf

life will be a key driver over the next few

years for manufacturers. Enhanced technical

knowledge and input by packaging technol-

ogists and packaging engineers through

improved performance qualities of materials

will be required to fuel market growth.

Packaging for product life extension – active and smart packaging By Pierre Pienaar, education coordinator,

Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP)

Those involved in food and beverage packaging know well that consumers and brand owners both are demanding increased shelf life from products. The modern food industry has developed and expanded because of its ability to deliver a wide variety of high quality food products to consumers on a nationwide and worldwide basis.

U2 DIESEL INKJET PRINTER. NO MESS. NO FUSS. NO WORRIES.

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Contact us (09) 537 0706 (027) 445 0293

regalpackaging.co.nz SOLUTIONS. SUPPORT. SERVICE.

R_2

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MAKE 2014 THE YEAR YOU INVEST IN YOUR CAREER

BUILD YOUR PACKAGING CAREER ON FIRM FOUNDATIONS WITH THE AIP.

The Australian Institute of Packaging (AIP) is at the forefront of packaging training and education in Australasia; helping to shape the careers of generations of packaging professionals - from packaging technologists to international packaging business leaders along with a host of people in associated disciplines - sales and marketing, purchasing, production and environment.

DIPLOMA IN PACKAGING TECHNOLOGYThe Diploma in Packaging Technology is an internationally recognised Level 5 foundation qualification that prepares students to take responsibility for packaging operations at any level through the supply chain and can also lead to higher level study.

CERTIFICATE IN PACKAGINGThe Certificate in Packaging is an internationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to meet the training needs of a wide variety of personnel in packaging, from the new entrant looking for a great start, to design, production, management, sales, marketing or purchasing staff looking to deepen their packaging knowledge.

aip march 2014 enewsletter

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